Street Photographer

New York Botanical Garden Photographer

Working as a photographer for the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) during the spring blossoms has been an absolute dream. There’s something truly magical about capturing the garden in its full bloom, especially after the long, quiet winter. The sheer variety of flowers that pop up during the season makes for an ever-changing, vibrant backdrop that never gets old.

One of the best parts of photographing during the spring blossoms is the rush of color. From the delicate pinks of cherry blossoms to the bold purples and yellows of tulips, every corner of the garden comes alive in a way that feels almost surreal. As a photographer, I get to focus on the intricate details—the soft petals, the glistening dew on a leaf, or the way light filters through the trees. It’s all about capturing the essence of nature’s beauty in its most fleeting moments.

But it’s not just about the flowers. The people visiting the garden, whether they’re families, tourists, or gardening enthusiasts, add a whole new layer to the story. I love capturing those candid moments of people enjoying the blooms—whether it’s a couple taking a photo under a canopy of cherry blossoms or a child marveling at a flower. It’s these small, authentic moments that make my work so meaningful.

The NYBG staff also deserves a shout-out. They work tirelessly to make sure the gardens are maintained and look their best, and it’s clear in every shot I take. There’s such a sense of care and dedication in the air, and I’m always in awe of the work they do.

All in all, being a photographer at NYBG during the spring blossoms is an experience I cherish. It’s not just about taking pretty pictures; it’s about capturing the feeling of renewal, joy, and awe that comes with the season. I’m grateful for the opportunity to document these beautiful moments and share them with others!

New York City Eclipse Crowds

Photographing the solar eclipse outside Radio City Music Hall was definitely an unforgettable experience. The energy around the city was electric as everyone gathered to witness such a rare and spectacular event. I had my camera set up and ready to go, knowing I had to be quick to capture the perfect moment—the timing of an eclipse is everything!

Radio City Music Hall, with its iconic Art Deco architecture, made for an amazing backdrop. The combination of the powerful celestial event and the famous venue created this cool contrast that was hard to miss. It wasn’t just about getting the eclipse itself—it was also about capturing the crowd's reactions and the atmosphere around the area. People were excited, and it was so much fun documenting those candid moments as they watched in awe.

The real challenge, of course, was managing the exposure for the eclipse itself. You can't just snap away at the sun without special filters and settings, so I was constantly adjusting to make sure I got those sharp, detailed shots without overexposing. But once the eclipse hit its peak, it felt like everything clicked. The sky turned this surreal shade of twilight blue, and the moment felt like pure magic.

Overall, it was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and it was great to capture it right in the heart of New York City. The whole thing felt like a perfect mix of natural wonder and urban energy—something I’ll definitely never forget.

Financial District

I'd never managed to visit the World Trade Center Oculus, and have seen so many thousands of instagram photos that I thought I knew the space. It is much much much more impressive in real life than any photo can do it justice.

The gridded window facade of the 9/11 museum and memorial is always an impressive view.

Ben Hider - Event, Food and Portrait Photographer based in New York City and Westchester